IP44 vs IP08
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP44 and IP08 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 4 vs 0) and liquid protection (level 4 vs 8). IP44 is rated for > 1 mm — small wires and splashing water (all directions), while IP08 provides no protection and continuous immersion (manufacturer-specified).
IP44 protects against small solid objects (1 mm) and splashing water from any direction. It is the common minimum rating for outdoor-covered fixtures and bathroom zone equipment.
Built to withstand no protection against solid objects and protection against the effects of continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer.. Classified as IEC 60529 ingress protection code IP08, it pairs solid level 0 with liquid level 8.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP44
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
0 — No Protection
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP44
4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP08
8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
Dust-tight
IP44
No
IP08
No
Water-jet resistant
IP44
No
IP08
Yes
Submersible
IP44
No
IP08
Yes
Outdoor suitable
IP44
Yes
IP08
Yes
The exact difference (IP44 vs IP08)
Solid protection
IP44
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP08
Level 0 — No Protection
IP44 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4), while IP08 provides "No Protection" (level 0). IP44 is 4 levels higher.
Liquid protection
IP44
Level 4 — Splashing Water (all directions)
IP08
Level 8 — Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)
IP44 handles 50–100 kPa (Splashing Water (all directions)), while IP08 handles Specified by manufacturer (Continuous Immersion (manufacturer-specified)). IP08 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP44 and IP08 offer comparable overall protection; choose based on the specific protection dimension (dust vs. water) that matters most for your application.